Navigating the Depths: Notable Incidents of Naval Ships Sunk by Conventional Submarines Post-World War II

Introduction

Since the end of World War II, conventional submarines have been instrumental in various naval conflicts and operations. Even though nuclear submarines dominate modern naval warfare, there are notable instances where conventional submarines have successfully sunk naval ships. This article explores some of the significant incidents involving conventional submarines post-World War II.

A Rare Case: The Loss of INS Dakar

One of the most notable examples of a naval ship being sunk by a conventional submarine after World War II is the INS Dakar, an Israeli submarine of the Israeli Navy. On January 18, 1968, the INS Dakar sank during its maiden voyage from the United Kingdom to Israel. Although the exact cause of the sinking remains a mystery, the fact that a conventional submarine was involved is significant and noteworthy. This incident underscores the evolving nature of naval warfare and the potential risks posed by even conventional submarines.

The ARA San Juan Incident

Another important case to mention is the ARA San Juan, an Argentine Navy submarine that sank on November 15, 2017. The ARA San Juan was on a routine patrol when it disappeared without a trace. While it did not sink another ship, it serves as a poignant reminder of the risks and uncertainties associated with conventional submarines in modern naval operations. The ARA San Juan’s disappearance highlights the challenges faced by submarine navigation and communication systems, even in the modern era.

The USS Scorpion Incident

The USS Scorpion SSN-589, a U.S. Navy nuclear submarine, met its demise in the Atlantic Ocean on May 22, 1968. Although this incident was caused by a possible internal failure, it still provides a critical case study for understanding the risks associated with nuclear submarines. The USS Scorpion’s sinking underscores the complexities of submarine operations, even when they are equipped with advanced technology.

A Conventional Submarine's Triumph: The INS Khukri Incident

One of the most significant examples of a conventional submarine sinking a naval ship occurs during the 1971 Indo-Pak War. INS Khukri, a Sri Lankan submarine, was engaged and subsequently sunk by the Pakistani submarine Hangor. This battle emerged as a stark reminder of the deadly effectiveness of conventional submarines in naval wars, despite their relatively lower technological advantages compared to their nuclear counterparts.

A Case of Friendly Fire: The ARA General Belgrano Sinking

The Falklands War of 1982 provided another poignant example. During this conflict, the HMS Conqueror, a nuclear-powered British submarine, sank the 12,400-ton Argentine cruiser ARA General Belgrano with conventional torpedoes, claiming the lives of 323 crew members. Although this incident involved a nuclear submarine, it demonstrates the lethal capability of conventional submarines when employed in conflict.

The ROKS Cheonan Sinking: North Korean Accountability

On March 26, 2010, the South Korean ROKS Cheonan, a Pohang-class corvette, tragically sank off the west coast of South Korea. The ship was carrying 104 personnel and ultimately lost 46 sailors. Investigations into the incident initially suggested that North Korea was to blame, firing a torpedo from a midget submarine. However, the incident remains controversial, with ongoing disputes over the cause. The resulting controversy and sanctions against North Korea illustrate the political implications of such incidents.

Conclusion

These incidents provide valuable insights into the capabilities and risks associated with conventional submarines in modern naval operations. As technology continues to evolve, the role of conventional submarines in naval warfare remains a subject of interest and study. The stories of these naval ships sinking by conventional submarines highlight the ongoing complexity and peril of submarine warfare.